Hi - new to mini ownership (had an E90 BMW so some things are familiar) and as much as I've searched I'm having trouble finding the most cost effective, clean way to get Bluetooth functionality - something I would think would have a write-up so maybe I'm just overlooking it or not using the right terms.

I don't like the idea of an aftermarket head unit because of the way the factory buttons are in the speedometer. I have an audio jack which is ok, but Colorado recently passed a hands-free law and I commute 80 miles a day so I need to be able to use my phone. The Bovee thing and similar products require an aux audio jack AND a USB, and I don't have the USB. I've seen the GROM, but it seems like a lot of $$$ by the time you get the box and the Bluetooth dongle, and then I've seen posts about people saying the microphone sucks.

So...what are the budget conscious tech-philes doing to get Bluetooth in their early gen 2 minis?

 

How about the Kinivo BTC480 Hands-Free Bluetooth Car Kit.

You'll get a new microphone... AUX-out and ability to put it next to your steering wheel.

All depends on if you use your radio a lot or are good with leaving it in AUX mode most of the time?
Reason for this is, and with the Bovee is that you must be in AUX mode to use the Phone... I see no evidence or claims that the BOVEE will allow you to use your phone through the BT device... only music from the iPhone?? (I'd love to be provent incorrect here... as the Bovee unit looks great)





.


.



.

 

I think we have a winner. I would really like something with a factory feel and appearance but on a 2008 it just doesn't seem like that's in the cards for a reasonable sum. It was built around the time the very first smartphones were released, after all.

 

This one seems to have good reviews as well... good price online stores too.... less than $25

For me.... the a big attraction is being able to have the home/siri button handy... I'm an iPhone user. This unit, and the one above, allows for that and easy placement too.
Phone and music controls.

AUKEY BR-C8 Wireless Audio Receiver Car Kit

 

I went with the kinivo BTC480, like it pretty well so far. Switching to AUX doesn't bother me too much, not much different than switching to CD changer as most of the other modules require. Plus I can use this in my other vehicles if I want.

Thanks for the suggestion.

 

Any feedback on your purchase for us ??


Thanks in advance.


.

 

I've got no real complaints. It connects to my phone reliably. Every now and then the person on the other end of the line will mention some background noise when I'm doing 80mph on the interstate, but I'm not sure much can be done about that with as much interior wind noise as an R56 gets. Just make sure it has line of sight to your mouth, if there's something in between it won't pick up your voice. I had a caller complain that my voice was cutting in and out and I realized that my work badge (that I hang on a lanyard from the rear view mirror) was swinging back and forth in front of the microphone when I turned.

 

Thank you for the reply !!